Dove Snail

Care Level: Easy

Color: Black and White

Diet: Herbivore

Family: Columbellidae

Maximum Size: 1"

Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons

pH: 8.1 - 8.4

Reef Compatible: Yes

Specific Gravity: 1.023-1.025

Temperament: Peaceful

Temperature: 72 - 80° F

Venomous: No

Dove Snails Pictocollumbella ocellata are more commonly referred to as Lightning Dove snails. They are popular among marine enthusiasts because they consume different types of algae: film, diatoms, hair, algal detritus and even some types of cyanobacteria. Preferring to spend their time on hard surfaces, hobbyists can expect to see them on the aquarium sides or rocks and décor. In addition, they like to spend their time in the substrate. Though the Dove Snail seems to breed easily, there are no distinguishing characteristics between males and females. Their muscular feet allow them to cling tightly to rocks or glass in search of food.

They will create a striking look in your marine aquarium due to their thick black shells with white curved or zig zag stripes. With a white shell interior, their entry point contains purple.

This member of the Columbellidae family is an herbivore.